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The Deputy National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and Executive Chairman of Oru West Local Government Area of Imo State, Engr. Ikenna Toni Adikibe, has called on Nigerians to embrace sacrifice, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence as Muslim faithful across the country celebrate Eid al-Adha 1447 AH.
In a goodwill message addressed to Muslims in all 774 local government areas and area councils nationwide, Adikibe described Eid-el-Adha as a sacred festival rooted in mercy, obedience, and devotion to God.
“As we mark Eid al-Adha 1447 AH, I extend warm greetings to all Muslim faithful across Nigeria,” he stated.
According to him, the celebration remains a profound reminder of the unwavering faith demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail.
“This sacred festival comes with mercy in its heart and remembrance on its lips. It calls us back to the surrender of Prophet Ibrahim [AS] and the obedience of Prophet Ismail [AS]—a timeless reminder that true devotion is measured by what we are willing to give up for Allah,” he said.
The ALGON chieftain added that the season should inspire Nigerians toward compassion, unity, and renewed spiritual commitment.
“May this season soften our hearts toward one another and renew our reverence for Prophet Muhammad and the faith he delivered,” Adikibe stated.
He further stressed that the celebration of Eid-el-Adha reflects the unifying power of Islam across diverse ethnic and regional divides in the country.
“From Sokoto to Lagos, Maiduguri to Port Harcourt, Imo to Zamfara, the call of Allahu Akbar unites us as one Ummah,” he declared.
He explained that the five pillars of Islam remain critical in shaping disciplined individuals and cohesive communities.
“It renews our bond to the Pillars of Islam: Shahadah, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj. These are not empty rites. They discipline the soul, order the home, and bind communities across tribe, tongue, and council into a single brotherhood under God,” he said.
Adikibe also used the occasion to call for enhanced security and greater protection for vulnerable Nigerians during the festive period, particularly in rural communities.
“For millions in rural Nigeria, a peaceful and dignified Eid depends on safety, affordability, and solidarity,” he noted.
The council chairman urged local government leaders, traditional institutions, and security agencies to intensify efforts toward safeguarding lives and property during the celebrations.
“I urge every LGA Chairman, traditional ruler, and security stakeholder to stand with the vulnerable. Prioritize public safety through proactive intelligence, coordinated patrols, and genuine community engagement,” he stated.
According to him, collaboration between citizens and security agencies remains essential to ensuring peaceful celebrations nationwide.
“When citizens and security agencies work together, markets stay open, places of worship are protected, roads are secured, and no family is denied the joy of this sacred day,” he added.
Adikibe further urged Nigerians to extend the spirit of sacrifice beyond the Sallah celebration by promoting tolerance, mutual respect, and grassroots-driven nation-building.
“May this blessed period deepen our devotion, strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, and inspire renewed commitment to nation-building from the grassroots up,” he said.6
He concluded by praying for peace, national unity, and divine acceptance of the sacrifices and prayers offered during the Eid celebrations.
“Eid Mubarak to all Nigerians. May Allah accept our prayers, sacrifices, and good deeds,” he prayed.
